Sets can consist of as few as three knives or as many as 20 pieces, including an assortment of knives, a butcher’s steel, shears, steak knives and a storage block. Don’t automatically assume more pieces are better, though. The bigger the set, the more room it requires in a kitchen drawer or on a countertop.

Virtually all high-quality knives are made from high-carbon stainless steel. The carbon makes them easy to sharpen and helps them keep their edges while the stainless prevents discoloration and rusting.

A utility knife, which is a little longer than a paring knife, and shears are items you’re likely to use often. Santokus are all-purpose knives that are nice to have, especially for slicing. But you may never use a boning knife, and we consider a sharpening steel of minimal benefit. Ultimately, consider the included tools that come in a certain set and whether or not you need them.